In the outdoor furniture world it is common for shoppers to wonder 'what is the best fabric for outdoor furniture? Often the choices come down to olefin vs. Sunbrella outdoor fabric.
It is such an important question because cushions are one of the most important considerations when shopping for patio furniture. Many people will tell you Sunbrella is the best. It is certainly the only household brand name when it comes to outdoor fabric for modular outdoor furniture. The industry has never provided anyone with an answer aside from Sunbrella, which has naturally led to shoppers automatically think it is the best and only choice. Our experience and expertise in the industry has led us to use both Sunbrella and Olefin fabric, but let’s dive into both options:
When it comes to choosing outdoor fabric for your patio furniture, two of the most popular options are Olefin and Sunbrella. Both fabrics have their advantages and disadvantages, and understanding the differences between the two can help you make an informed decision. In this blog post, we will compare Olefin vs Sunbrella outdoor fabric in terms of durability, maintenance, and overall performance.
Durability
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing outdoor fabric is its durability. Outdoor furniture is exposed to a range of harsh weather conditions, including rain, wind, and sunlight, which can cause damage and wear over time.
Olefin is a synthetic fiber that is known for its durability and resistance to stains, mildew, and fading. It is also resistant to moisture, making it a great option for outdoor furniture. However, it is not as strong as some other synthetic fibers, such as polyester, and can be prone to pilling and snagging.
Sunbrella outdoor fabric, on the other hand, is a high-performance fabric that is specifically designed for outdoor use. It is made from 100% solution-dyed acrylic fibers, which are fade-resistant and UV-resistant. It is also water-repellent, mildew-resistant, and easy to clean. Sunbrella is known for its exceptional durability and can last for many years, even in harsh outdoor environments.
Maintenance
Maintaining outdoor furniture can be a hassle, so choosing a fabric that is easy to clean and maintain is important. Both Olefin and Sunbrella are low-maintenance options that require minimal upkeep.
Olefin is easy to clean with mild soap and water, and it dries quickly. It is also resistant to stains, so spills and dirt can be easily wiped away. However, it is not machine-washable and can be damaged by bleach or harsh chemicals.
Sunbrella is also easy to clean with mild soap and water, and it is machine-washable. It can be bleached without damaging the fabric, making it a great option for outdoor furniture that is exposed to heavy use or frequent spills. However, Sunbrella can be prone to water spots if not properly dried after cleaning.
Overall Performance
When it comes to overall performance, both Olefin and Sunbrella outdoor fabrics have their strengths and weaknesses.
Olefin is a good option for outdoor furniture that is used occasionally or for short periods of time. It is affordable and resistant to stains and fading, making it a good choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, it may not hold up as well as other synthetic fibers over time, and it can be prone to pilling and snagging.
Sunbrella, on the other hand, is a high-performance fabric that is designed for outdoor use. It is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to fading, stains, and mildew. It is also available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easy to find a style that suits your outdoor decor. However, it is more expensive than other outdoor fabrics, and it may not be the best choice for consumers on a tight budget.
Sunbrella Outdoor Fabric
Solution Dyed Acrylic
Sunbrella is made with solution dyed acrylic fabric. Acrylic fabrics are soft to the touch and mold and mildew resistant, making them a great choice for outdoor furniture cushions. They also repel water and dry very quickly. The process of “solution dyeing” ensures that the fabric will resist fading over time. Most fabrics are woven into yarn and then dyed their color after, which means the core of the yarn is white and the color will eventually fade. Solution dyeing is when a liquid fabric solution is mixed with the dye color before becomes a yarn, meaning that the color is true all the way through to its core.
What is Olefin Fabric?
Solution Dyed Olefin
Sunproof is the most popular brand name of solution dyed olefin fabric. Solution dyed means it goes through the same process as Sunbrella to make its color. Olefin is also a mildew resistant, quick drying, and water repellant fabric. Another benefit is that it is resistant to chlorine. Olefin is definitely a lesser known fabric than acrylic. It is more rugged to the touch than Sunbrella.
Our Conclusion
Madbury Road was founded in the Northeast, where we see some of the harshest summers, with strong sun, heavy rains, and vast changes in temperature. Many of our customers are also near or around the coastlines, where the salt from the ocean is constantly in the air. On a trip to visit our manufacturers one of our suppliers showed us every detail of Sunbrella and olefin fabric. Both can be used for commercial settings which includes a wide variety of resorts, hotels, and restaurants around the world. Sunbrella is softer to the touch, just as durable, and easier to clean than Olefin. While we've used Sunproof in the past and it's perfectly acceptable, we concluded that Sunbrella is the best choice.
When it comes to choosing outdoor fabric for your patio furniture, there are many factors to consider. Olefin and Sunbrella are both popular options that offer durability, low maintenance, and overall performance. However, each fabric has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Olefin is a good choice for consumers on a budget who are looking for a durable and low-maintenance option. It is resistant to stains and fading, making it a good choice for occasional outdoor use.
Sunbrella, on the other hand, is a high-performance fabric that is designed specifically for outdoor use. It is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to fading, stains, and mildew. However, it is more expensive than other outdoor